Prince Charles buries a ghost of his past to lay a milestone on path to peace

Prince’s stiff upper lip never wavered on historic pilgrimage

By Ivan Little

Prince Charles buries a ghost of his past to lay a milestone on path to peace

BelfastTelegraph.co.uk

He may have come to Mullaghmore to bury a part of his own haunted past - but Prince Charles departed after one of his toughest royal engagements with a sense that he'd somehow turned a personal tragedy wrought from Anglo-Irish divisions into a triumph that cemented an even closer future between Britain and Ireland.

Prince Charles Camilla cut a cake with the help of Mr David Lindsay, HM Lord-Lieutenant of County Down during their visit to Mount Stewart House and Garden on May 22, 2015 in Newtownards, Northern Ireland. (Photo by Eddie Mulholland - Pool/Getty Images)

ANTRIM, NORTHERN IRELAND - MAY 22: Prince Charles, Prince of Wales and Camilla, Duchess of Cornwall cut a cake with the help of Mr David Lindsay, HM Lord-Lieutenant of County Down during their visit to Mount Stewart House and Garden on May 22, 2015 in Newtownards, Northern Ireland. Prince Charles, Prince of Wales and Camilla, Duchess of Cornwall visited Mount Stewart House and Gardens and Northern Ireland's oldest peace and reconciliation centre Corrymeela on the final day of their visit of Ireland. (Photo by Eddie Mulholland - Pool/Getty Images)

ANTRIM, NORTHERN IRELAND - MAY 22: Prince Charles, Prince of Wales and Camilla, Duchess of Cornwall cut a cake with the help of Mr David Lindsay, HM Lord-Lieutenant of County Down during their visit to Mount Stewart House and Garden on May 22, 2015 in Newtownards, Northern Ireland. Prince Charles, Prince of Wales and Camilla, Duchess of Cornwall visited Mount Stewart House and Gardens and Northern Ireland's oldest peace and reconciliation centre Corrymeela on the final day of their visit of Ireland. (Photo by Eddie Mulholland - Pool/Getty Images)

ANTRIM, NORTHERN IRELAND - MAY 22: Prince Charles, Prince of Wales and Camilla, Duchess of Cornwall visit Mount Stewart House and Garden on May 22, 2015 in Newtownards, Northern Ireland. Prince Charles, Prince of Wales and Camilla, Duchess of Cornwall visited Mount Stewart House and Gardens and Northern Ireland's oldest peace and reconciliation centre Corrymeela on the final day of their visit of Ireland. (Photo by Eddie Mulholland - Pool/Getty Images)

ANTRIM, NORTHERN IRELAND - MAY 22: Camilla, Duchess of Cornwall with the famous "Hamiltonian" by George Stubbs as she visits Mount Stewart House and Garden on May 22, 2015 in Newtownards, Northern Ireland. Prince Charles, Prince of Wales and Camilla, Duchess of Cornwall visited Mount Stewart House and Gardens and Northern Ireland's oldest peace and reconciliation centre Corrymeela on the final day of their visit of Ireland. (Photo by Eddie Mulholland - Pool/Getty Images)

ANTRIM, NORTHERN IRELAND - MAY 22: Camilla, Duchess of Cornwall visits Mount Stewart House and Garden on May 22, 2015 in Newtownards, Northern Ireland. Prince Charles, Prince of Wales and Camilla, Duchess of Cornwall visited Mount Stewart House and Gardens and Northern Ireland's oldest peace and reconciliation centre Corrymeela on the final day of their visit of Ireland. (Photo by Eddie Mulholland - Pool/Getty Images)

ANTRIM, NORTHERN IRELAND - MAY 22: Prince Charles, Prince of Wales and Camilla, Duchess of Cornwall visit Mount Stewart House and Garden on May 22, 2015 in Newtownards, Northern Ireland. Prince Charles, Prince of Wales and Camilla, Duchess of Cornwall visited Mount Stewart House and Gardens and Northern Ireland's oldest peace and reconciliation centre Corrymeela on the final day of their visit of Ireland. (Photo by Eddie Mulholland - Pool/Getty Images)

ANTRIM, NORTHERN IRELAND - MAY 22: Prince Charles, Prince of Wales and Camilla, Duchess of Cornwall visit Mount Stewart House and Garden on May 22, 2015 in Newtownards, Northern Ireland. Prince Charles, Prince of Wales and Camilla, Duchess of Cornwall visited Mount Stewart House and Gardens and Northern Ireland's oldest peace and reconciliation centre Corrymeela on the final day of their visit of Ireland. (Photo by Eddie Mulholland - Pool/Getty Images)

The Prince of Wales and the Duchess of Cornwall during a visit to the Corrymeela Centre in Ballycastle Co Antrim which is Northern Ireland's oldest peace and reconciliation centre.

The Prince of Wales and the Duchess of Cornwall arrive by helicopter to visit the Corrymeela Centre in Ballycastle Co Antrim which is Northern Ireland's oldest peace and reconciliation centre.

The Prince of Wales and Duchess of Cornwall tour the Gardens talking to workers at Mount Stewart House, in Co Down on the last day of their visit to Northern Ireland.

The Prince of Wales and Duchess of Cornwall emerge from the house to tour the Gardens at Mount Stewart House, in Co Down on the last day of their visit to Northern Ireland.

The Prince of Wales and Duchess of Cornwall slice a sponge cake resembling Mount Stewart House, in Co Down, during a tour for the official re-opening of the National Trust property, which has undergone a refurbishment.

Prince Charles, Prince of Wales laughs as he visits Mount Stewart on May 22, 2015 in Newtownards, Northern Ireland. Prince Charles, Prince of Wales and Camilla, Duchess of Cornwall visited Mount Stewart House and Gardens and Northern Ireland's oldest peace and reconciliation centre Corrymeela on the final day of their visit of Ireland. (Photo by Jeff J Mitchell/Getty Images)

The Prince of Wales and Duchess of Cornwall tour the Gardens with Head Gardener Neil Porteous at Mount Stewart House, in Co Down on the last day of their visit to Northern Ireland.

Prince Charles, Prince of Wales and Camilla, Duchess of Cornwall visit Mount Stewart on May 22, 2015 in Newtownards, Northern Ireland. Prince Charles, Prince of Wales and Camilla, Duchess of Cornwall visited Mount Stewart House and Gardens and Northern Ireland's oldest peace and reconciliation centre Corrymeela on the final day of their visit of Ireland. (Photo by Jeff J Mitchell/Getty Images)

The Prince of Wales and Duchess of Cornwall tour Mount Stewart House, in Co Down on the last day of their visit to Northern Ireland.

Prince Charles, Prince of Wales and Camilla, Duchess of Cornwall visit Mount Stewart on May 22, 2015 in Newtownards, Northern Ireland. Prince Charles, Prince of Wales and Camilla, Duchess of Cornwall visited Mount Stewart House and Gardens and Northern Ireland's oldest peace and reconciliation centre Corrymeela on the final day of their visit of Ireland. (Photo by Jeff J Mitchell/Getty Images)

The Prince of Wales talks with a dancer during a reception and concert featuring performers from Northern Ireland at Hillsborough Castle, in Belfast, Northern Ireland.

The Prince of Wales and the Duchess of Cornwall pose with performers during a reception and concert featuring performers from Northern Ireland at Hillsborough Castle, in Belfast, Northern Ireland.

Camilla, Duchess of Cornwall visits Mount Stewart on May 22, 2015 in Newtownards, Northern Ireland. Prince Charles, Prince of Wales and Camilla, Duchess of Cornwall visited Mount Stewart House and Gardens and Northern Ireland's oldest peace and reconciliation centre Corrymeela on the final day of their visit of Ireland. (Photo by Jeff J Mitchell/Getty Images)

The Prince of Wales and the Duchess of Cornwall, during a visit to St Patrick's Church, in Belfast

The Prince of Wales, waves as he walks out of St Patrick's Church, in Belfast, Northern Ireland, with Fr Michael Sheehan, as the Prince of Wales and the Duchess of Cornwall, attend a series of engagements in Northern Ireland following their two day visit in the Republic of Ireland. PRESS ASSOCIATION Photo. Picture date: Thursday May 21, 2015. The Prince of Wales has visited a Catholic church in Belfast that has been at the centre of a series of bitter marching disputes involving Protestant loyal orders and loyalist bands. St Patrick's Church has witnessed disorder and discord in recent years, with some parading loyalist bandsmen accused of provocative and sectarian behaviour while passing the place of worship. The visit of the prince and the Duchess of Cornwall will be seen as another symbolic gesture by a Royal family keen to contribute to reconciliation in Northern Ireland.
See PA story ROYAL Ireland. Photo credit should read: Jeff J Mitchell/PA Wire

The Duchess of Cornwall meets school children as she visits Ballyhackamore Credit Union in Belfast, Northern Ireland, as the Prince of Wales and Camilla, attend a series of engagements in Northern Ireland following their two day visit in the Republic of Ireland. PRESS ASSOCIATION Photo. Picture date: Thursday May 21, 2015. See PA story ROYAL Ireland. Photo credit should read: Jeff J Mitchell/PA Wire

The Duchess of Cornwall meets school children as she visits Ballyhackamore Credit Union in Belfast, Northern Ireland, as the Prince of Wales and Camilla, attend a series of engagements in Northern Ireland following their two day visit in the Republic of Ireland. PRESS ASSOCIATION Photo. Picture date: Thursday May 21, 2015. See PA story ROYAL Ireland. Photo credit should read: Jeff J Mitchell/PA Wire

The Duchess of Cornwall receives flowers from Sophie Booker,ten, as she visits Ballyhackamore Credit Union in Belfast, Northern Ireland, as the Prince of Wales and Camilla, attend a series of engagements in Northern Ireland following their two day visit in the Republic of Ireland. PRESS ASSOCIATION Photo. Picture date: Thursday May 21, 2015. See PA story ROYAL Ireland. Photo credit should read: Jeff J Mitchell/PA Wire

BELFAST, NORTHERN IRELAND - MAY 21: Patron of The Big Lunch Camilla, Duchess of Cornwall reacts as she attends a reception for supporters of the community initiative on May 21, 2015 in Belfast, Northern Ireland. Prince Charles, Prince of Wales and Camilla, Duchess of Cornwall will attend a series of engagements in Northern Ireland following their two day visit in the Republic of Ireland. (Photo by Arthur Edwards - WPA Pool/Getty Images)

BELFAST, NORTHERN IRELAND - MAY 21: Patron of The Big Lunch Camilla, Duchess of Cornwall greets well wishers on May 21, 2015 in Belfast, Northern Ireland. Prince Charles, Prince of Wales and Camilla, Duchess of Cornwall will attend a series of engagements in Northern Ireland following their two day visit in the Republic of Ireland. (Photo by Arthur Edwards - WPA Pool/Getty Images)

BELFAST, NORTHERN IRELAND - MAY 21: Patron of The Big Lunch Camilla, Duchess of Cornwall reacts as she attends a reception for supporters of the community initiative on May 21, 2015 in Belfast, Northern Ireland. Prince Charles, Prince of Wales and Camilla, Duchess of Cornwall will attend a series of engagements in Northern Ireland following their two day visit in the Republic of Ireland. (Photo by Arthur Edwards - WPA Pool/Getty Images)

BELFAST, NORTHERN IRELAND - MAY 21: Patron of The Big Lunch Camilla, Duchess of Cornwall greets well wishers on May 21, 2015 in Belfast, Northern Ireland. Prince Charles, Prince of Wales and Camilla, Duchess of Cornwall will attend a series of engagements in Northern Ireland following their two day visit in the Republic of Ireland. (Photo by Arthur Edwards - WPA Pool/Getty Images)

BELFAST, NORTHERN IRELAND - MAY 21: Prince Charles, Prince of Wales greets well wishers as he visits St Patrick's Church on May 21, 2015 in Belfast, Northern Ireland. Prince Charles, Prince of Wales and Camilla, Duchess of Cornwall will attend a series of engagements in Northern Ireland following their two day visit in the Republic of Ireland. (Photo by Jeff J Mitchell - WPA Pool/Getty Images)

BELFAST, NORTHERN IRELAND - MAY 21: Camilla, Duchess of Cornwall meets school children as she visits Ballyhackamore Credit Union on May 21, 2015 in Belfast, Northern Ireland. Prince Charles, Prince of Wales and Camilla, Duchess of Cornwall will attend a series of engagements in Northern Ireland following their two day visit in the Republic of Ireland. (Photo by Jeff J Mitchell - WPA Pool/Getty Images)

BELFAST, NORTHERN IRELAND - MAY 21: Camilla, Duchess of Cornwall visits Ballyhackamore Credit Union on May 21, 2015 in Belfast, Northern Ireland. Prince Charles, Prince of Wales and Camilla, Duchess of Cornwall will attend a series of engagements in Northern Ireland following their two day visit in the Republic of Ireland. (Photo by Jeff J Mitchell - WPA Pool/Getty Images)

Prince Charles and Camilla at St Patricks Church in Belfast during their visit
Picture - Kevin Scott / Presseye

Prince Charles and Camilla at St Patricks Church in Belfast during their visit
Picture - Kevin Scott / Presseye

Prince Charles and Camilla at St Patricks Church in Belfast during their visit
Picture - Kevin Scott / Presseye

Prince Charles and Camilla at St Patricks Church in Belfast during their visit
Picture - Kevin Scott / Presseye

Prince Charles and Camilla at St Patricks Church in Belfast during their visit
Picture - Kevin Scott / Presseye

Prince Charles is greeted by First Minister Peter Robinson and Deputy First Minister Martin McGuinness St Patrick's Catholic Church on Donegal Street in Belfast City Centre as part of his trip to Ireland both North and South. The church has been the focus of Orange Order parading issues in the last number of years. Sinn Fein's Martin McGuinness follows up his meeting with the Queen by greeting Price Charles on his visit.

Prince Charles visits the village of Mullaghmore, where his great uncle Lord Mountbatten was killed in an IRA bomb attack in 1979

Prince Charles visits the village of Mullaghmore, where his great uncle Lord Mountbatten was killed in an IRA bomb attack in 1979

Prince Charles visits the village of Mullaghmore, where his great uncle Lord Mountbatten was killed in an IRA bomb attack in 1979

Prince Charles visits the village of Mullaghmore, where his great uncle Lord Mountbatten was killed in an IRA bomb attack in 1979

Prince Charles visits the village of Mullaghmore, where his great uncle Lord Mountbatten was killed in an IRA bomb attack in 1979

Prince Charles visits the village of Mullaghmore, where his great uncle Lord Mountbatten was killed in an IRA bomb attack in 1979

Prince Charles visits the village of Mullaghmore, where his great uncle Lord Mountbatten was killed in an IRA bomb attack in 1979

The Duchess of Cornwall with owners Constance Cassidy (left) and Eddie Walsh during a visit to Lissadell House, Sligo - W.B.Yeats summer house - on day two of a four day visit to Ireland. PRESS ASSOCIATION Photo. Picture date: Wednesday May 20, 2015. See PA story ROYAL Ireland. Photo credit should read: Brian Lawless/PA Wire

The Prince of Wales and the Duchess of Cornwall after a service of peace and reconciliation at St. Columba's Church in Drumcliffe on the second day of a four day visit to Ireland. PRESS ASSOCIATION Photo. Picture date: Wednesday May 20, 2015. See PA story ROYAL Ireland. Photo credit should read: Brian Lawless/PA Wire

The Prince of Wales and the Duchess of Cornwall receive a painting after a service of peace and reconciliation at St. Columba's Church in Drumcliffe on the second day of a four day visit to Ireland. PRESS ASSOCIATION Photo. Picture date: Wednesday May 20, 2015. See PA story ROYAL Ireland. Photo credit should read: Brian Lawless/PA Wire

The Prince of Wales (2nd left) and The Duchess of Cornwall (3rd left) at the grave of WB Yeats after attending a peace and reconciliation prayer service at St. Columba's Church in Drumcliffe on day two of a four day visit to Ireland. PRESS ASSOCIATION Photo. Picture date: Wednesday May 20, 2015. See PA story ROYAL Ireland. Photo credit should read: Colm Mahady/PA Wire

The Prince of Wales and the Duchess of Cornwall (centre) and Former President of Ireland Mary McAleese and her husband Martin (behind) after a peace and reconciliation prayer service at St. Columba's Church in Drumcliffe on day two of a four day visit to Ireland. PRESS ASSOCIATION Photo. Picture date: Wednesday May 20, 2015. See PA story ROYAL Ireland. Photo credit should read: Colm Mahady/PA Wire

The Prince of Wales (centre) and the Very Rev. Arfon Williams at the grave of WB Yeats after attending a peace and reconciliation prayer service at St. Columba's Church in Drumcliffe on day two of a four day visit to Ireland. PRESS ASSOCIATION Photo. Picture date: Wednesday May 20, 2015. See PA story ROYAL Ireland. Photo credit should read: Colm Mahady/PA Wire

The Prince of Wales and the Duchess of Cornwall during a prayer following planting a London Oak after a service of peace and reconciliation at St. Columba's Church in Drumcliffe on the second day of a four day visit to Ireland. PRESS ASSOCIATION Photo. Picture date: Wednesday May 20, 2015. See PA story ROYAL Ireland. Photo credit should read: Brian Lawless/PA Wire

The Prince of Wales (right) talking to Bethany McLoughlin who was part of a choir that sang during a peace and reconciliation prayer service at St. Columba's Church in Drumcliffe on the second day of a four day visit to Ireland. PRESS ASSOCIATION Photo. Picture date: Wednesday May 20, 2015. See PA story ROYAL Ireland. Photo credit should read: Brian Lawless/PA Wire

The Prince of Wales (centre) and Duchess of Cornwall (left) meet Former President of Ireland Mary McAleese (centre right) and her husband Martin (behind) as they attend a peace and reconciliation prayer service at St. Columba's Church in Drumcliffe on day two of a four day visit to Ireland. PRESS ASSOCIATION Photo. Picture date: Wednesday May 20, 2015. See PA story ROYAL Ireland. Photo credit should read: Colm Mahady/PA Wire

The Prince of Wales (centre) and the Duchess of Cornwall (left) attends a peace and reconciliation prayer service at St. Columba's Church in Drumcliffe on day two of a four day visit to Ireland. PRESS ASSOCIATION Photo. Picture date: Wednesday May 20, 2015. See PA story ROYAL Ireland. Photo credit should read: Colm Mahady/PA Wire

A peace and reconciliation prayer service at St. Columba's Church in Drumcliffe attended by the The Prince of Wales and the Duchess of Cornwall on day two of a four day visit to Ireland. PRESS ASSOCIATION Photo. Picture date: Wednesday May 20, 2015. See PA story ROYAL Ireland. Photo credit should read: Colm Mahady/PA Wire

SLIGO, IRELAND - MAY 20: (L-R) The Very Rev. Arfon Williams, Prince Charles, Prince of Wales and Camilla, Duchess of Cornwall, Former President of Ireland Mary McAleese, Martin McAleese, and Minister of Foreign Affairs Charlie Flanagan attend a tree planting ceremony after a service of peace and reconciliation at St. Columba's Church in Drumcliffe on the second day of a four day visit to Ireland on May 20, 2015 in Sligo, Ireland. The Prince of Wales and Duchess of Cornwall arrived in Ireland yesterday for their four day visit to the Republic and Northern Ireland, the visit has been described by the British Embassy as another important step in promoting peace and reconciliation. (Photo by Brian Lawless - WPA Pool/Getty Images)

SLIGO, IRLEAND - MAY 20: Prince Charles, Prince of Wales leaves after attending a peace and reconciliation prayer service at St. Columba's Church in Drumcliffe on the second day of a four day visit to Ireland on May 20, 2015 in Sligo, Ireland. The Prince of Wales and Duchess of Cornwall arrived in Ireland yesterday for their four day visit to the Republic and Northern Ireland, the visit has been described by the British Embassy as another important step in promoting peace and reconciliation. (Photo by Brian Lawless - WPA Pool/Getty Images)

SLIGO, IRLEAND - MAY 20: Prince Charle, Prince of Wales and Camilla, Duchess of Cornwall attend a ceremony to plant a London Oak tree after a service of peace and reconciliation at St. Columba's Church in Drumcliffe on the second day of a four day visit to Ireland on May 20, 2015 in Sligo, Ireland. The Prince of Wales and Duchess of Cornwall arrived in Ireland yesterday for their four day visit to the Republic and Northern Ireland, the visit has been described by the British Embassy as another important step in promoting peace and reconciliation. (Photo by Brian Lawless - WPA Pool/Getty Images)

SLIGO, IRLEAND - MAY 20: Prince Charles, Prince of Wales talking to Bethany McLoughlin who was part of a choir that sang during a peace and reconciliation prayer service at St. Columba's Church in Drumcliffe on the second day of a four day visit to Ireland on May 20, 2015 in Sligo, Ireland. The Prince of Wales and Duchess of Cornwall arrived in Ireland yesterday for their four day visit to the Republic and Northern Ireland, the visit has been described by the British Embassy as another important step in promoting peace and reconciliation. (Photo by Brian Lawless - WPA Pool/Getty Images)

The body is brought ashore

Lord Mountbatten

Britain's Prince Charles, Prince of Wales (C) listens as farmer Pat Nagle talks during his visit to the Burren National Park in west Ireland, on May 19, 2015. Prince Charles on Tuesday became the first British royal to meet Irish republican leader Gerry Adams, on a visit that will take him to the scene of his great-uncle's murder by the IRA. AFP PHOTO / POOL / JOHN STILLWELLJOHN STILLWELL/AFP/Getty Images

The Prince of Wales as he helps build a dry stone wall during his visit to the Burren in County Clare, an ancient and dramatic stony outcrop famed for its rare plant life, biodiversity and archaeology on on the first day of his Royal visit to the Republic of Ireland. PRESS ASSOCIATION Photo. Picture date: Tuesday May 19, 2015. See PA story ROYAL Ireland. Photo credit should read: John Stillwell/PA Wire

Britain's Prince Charles, Prince of Wales (L) and BurrenBeo Trust Project Manager Brendan Dunford (C) examine the flora during his visit to the Burren, a vast area of limestone rock, at Burren National Park in west Ireland, on May 19, 2015. Prince Charles on Tuesday became the first British royal to meet Irish republican leader Gerry Adams, on a visit that will take him to the scene of his great-uncle's murder by the IRA. AFP PHOTO / POOL / JOHN STILLWELLJOHN STILLWELL/AFP/Getty Images

Britain's Prince Charles, Prince of Wales (C) walks with BurrenBeo Trust Project Manager Brendan Dunford, (R) and Trust Coordinator Brigid Barry during his visit to the Burren, a vast area of limestone rock, at Burren National Park in west Ireland, on May 19, 2015. Prince Charles on Tuesday became the first British royal to meet Irish republican leader Gerry Adams, on a visit that will take him to the scene of his great-uncle's murder by the IRA. AFP PHOTO / POOL / JOHN STILLWELLJOHN STILLWELL/AFP/Getty Images

Britain's Camilla, Duchess of Cornwall samples a cocktail, called "The Duchess" as she visits the Taste of the Wild Atlantic Way Food Festival at the House Hotel in Galway, west Ireland on May 19, 2015. Prince Charles became the first British royal to meet Irish republican leader Gerry Adams, on a visit that will take him to the scene of his great-uncle's murder by the IRA. AFP PHOTO / POOL / JEFF J MITCHELLJEFF J MITCHELL/AFP/Getty Images

Prince Charles shakes hands with Sinn Fein president Gerry Adams at the National University of Ireland on May 19, 2015 in Galway (Photo by Brian Lawless - WPA Pool/Getty Images)

Britain's Camilla, Duchess of Cornwall visits the Taste of the Wild Atlantic Way Food Festival at the House Hotel in Galway, west Ireland on May 19, 2015. Prince Charles became the first British royal to meet Irish republican leader Gerry Adams, on a visit that will take him to the scene of his great-uncle's murder by the IRA. AFP PHOTO / POOL / JEFF J MITCHELLJEFF J MITCHELL/AFP/Getty Images

THE BURREN, IRELAND - MAY 19: Prince Charles, Prince of Wales with Brendan Dunford manager of Burren Life and Bridgid Barry Burrenbeo during his visit to The Burren, an ancient and dramatic stony outcrop famed for its rare plant life, biodiversity and archaeology, on the first day of his Royal visit to the Republic of Ireland on May 19, 2015 in County Clare, Ireland. The Prince of Wales and Duchess of Cornwall arrived in Ireland today for their four day visit to the Republic and Northern Ireland, the visit has been described by the British Embassy as another important step in promoting peace and reconciliation. (Photo by Eddie Mulholland - WPA Pool/Getty Images)

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The Prince of Wales visiting the Burren, Galway to explore it's rare landscape and to learn about the challenges facing it's farming community.
He met students and conservation volunteers, watched local children playing traditional music and was presented with a hamper of local produce.
PIC: HRH with Brendan Dunford manager of Burren Life and Bridgid Barry Burrenbeo

THE BURREN, IRELAND - MAY 19: Prince Charles, Prince of Wales shakes hands with local farmer Oliver Nagle with his father Pat (R) looking on during his visit to The Burren, an ancient and dramatic stony outcrop famed for its rare plant life, biodiversity and archaeology, on the first day of his Royal visit to the Republic of Ireland on May 19, 2015 in County Clare, Ireland. The Prince of Wales and Duchess of Cornwall arrived in Ireland today for their four day visit to the Republic and Northern Ireland, the visit has been described by the British Embassy as another important step in promoting peace and reconciliation. (Photo by John Stillwell - WPA Pool/Getty Images)

THE BURREN, IRELAND - MAY 19: Prince Charles, Prince of Wales is helped up a short climb by Brigid Barry and Brendan Dunford during his visit to The Burren, an ancient and dramatic stony outcrop famed for its rare plant life, biodiversity and archaeology, on the first day of his Royal visit to the Republic of Ireland on May 19, 2015 in County Clare, Ireland. The Prince of Wales and Duchess of Cornwall arrived in Ireland today for their four day visit to the Republic and Northern Ireland, the visit has been described by the British Embassy as another important step in promoting peace and reconciliation. (Photo by John Stillwell - WPA Pool/Getty Images)

THE BURREN, IRELAND - MAY 19: Prince Charles, Prince of Wales is given a talk on farming by local farmer Pat Nagle during his visit to The Burren, an ancient and dramatic stony outcrop famed for its rare plant life, biodiversity and archaeology, on the first day of his Royal visit to the Republic of Ireland on May 19, 2015 in County Clare, Ireland. The Prince of Wales and Duchess of Cornwall arrived in Ireland today for their four day visit to the Republic and Northern Ireland, the visit has been described by the British Embassy as another important step in promoting peace and reconciliation. (Photo by John Stillwell - WPA Pool/Getty Images)

Taoiseach Enda Kenny (left) with the Prince of Wales (right) at the Marine Institute in Galway, on day one of a four day visit to Ireland with the Duchess of Cornwall Photo credit: Arthur Edwards/The Sun/PA Wire

The Prince of Wales at the Marine Institute in Galway, on day one of a four day visit to Ireland with the Duchess of Cornwall. PRESS ASSOCIATION Photo. Picture date: Tuesday May 19, 2015. See PA story ROYAL Ireland. Photo credit should read: Arthur Edwards/The Sun/PA Wire

Taoiseach Enda Kenny (centre) with the Prince of Wales (left) at the Marine Institute in Galway, on day one of a four day visit to Ireland with the Duchess of Cornwall. PRESS ASSOCIATION Photo. Picture date: Tuesday May 19, 2015. See PA story ROYAL Ireland. Photo credit should read: Arthur Edwards/The Sun/PA Wire

The Prince of Wales at the Marine Institute in Galway, on day one of a four day visit to Ireland with the Duchess of Cornwall. PRESS ASSOCIATION Photo. Picture date: Tuesday May 19, 2015. See PA story ROYAL Ireland. Photo credit should read: Arthur Edwards/The Sun/PA Wire

The Prince of Wales who was presented with a 330milion year old fossil from near Mulaghmore by Prof Andy Wheeler, at the Marine Institute in Galwa, on day one of a four day visit to Ireland with the Duchess of Cornwall. PRESS ASSOCIATION Photo. Picture date: Tuesday May 19, 2015. See PA story ROYAL Ireland. Photo credit should read: Arthur Edwards/The Sun/PA Wire

Taoiseach Enda Kenny (centre) with the Prince of Wales (left) at the Marine Institute in Galway, on day one of a four day visit to Ireland with the Duchess of Cornwall. PRESS ASSOCIATION Photo. Picture date: Tuesday May 19, 2015. See PA story ROYAL Ireland. Photo credit should read: Arthur Edwards/The Sun/PA Wire

Taoiseach Enda Kenny (left) presents the Prince of Wales (right) with a limited edition commemorative medal in honour of John Philip Holland, Irish inventor of the modern submarine, at the Marine Institute in Galway, on day one of a four day visit to Ireland with the Duchess of Cornwall. PRESS ASSOCIATION Photo. Picture date: Tuesday May 19, 2015. See PA story ROYAL Ireland. Photo credit should read: Arthur Edwards/The Sun/PA Wire

PACEMAKER PRESS INTL BELFAST 26/8/09. A Collect of Paul Maxwell with his sister Lisa , who was murdered with Lord Louis Mountbatten by an IRA bomb while sailing near his holiday home in County Sligo, Ireland, on 27th August, 1979

The Prince of Wales at the Marine Institute in Galway, on day one of a four day visit to Ireland with the Duchess of Cornwall. PRESS ASSOCIATION Photo. Picture date: Tuesday May 19, 2015. See PA story ROYAL Ireland. Photo credit should read: Arthur Edwards/The Sun/PA Wire

The Prince of Wales meets meets Gwen Carroll from Cork at the Marine Institute in Galway, on day one of a four day visit to Ireland with the Duchess of Cornwall. PRESS ASSOCIATION Photo. Picture date: Tuesday May 19, 2015. See PA story ROYAL Ireland. Photo credit should read: Arthur Edwards/The Sun/PA Wire

GALWAY, IRELAND - MAY 19: Irish Taoiseach Enda Kenny and Prince Charles, Prince Of Wales visit the Marine Institute on May 19, 2015 in Galway, Ireland. The Prince of Wales and Duchess of Cornwall arrived in Ireland today for their four day visit to the Republic and Northern Ireland, the visit has been described by the British Embassy as another important step in promoting peace and reconciliation. (Photo by Arthur Edwards - WPA Pool/Getty Images)

GALWAY, IRELAND - MAY 19: Prince Charles, Prince Of Wales and Camilla, Duchess of Cornwall plant an oak tree at a welcome reception at National University of Ireland on May 19, 2015 in Galway, Ireland. The Prince of Wales and Duchess of Cornwall arrived in Ireland today for their four day visit to the Republic and Northern Ireland, the visit has been described by the British Embassy as another important step in promoting peace and reconciliation. (Photo by Brian Lawless - WPA Pool/Getty Images)

Prince Charles, Prince Of Wales and Camilla, Duchess of Cornwall watch an Irish dancing performance along with Tanaiste Joan Burton (in pink) and Minister for Arts, Heritage and Gaeltacht (L) at a welcome reception at National University of Ireland on May 19, 2015 in Galway (Photo by Brian Lawless - WPA Pool/Getty Images)

The Prince of Wales (left) shakes hands with Sinn Fein president Gerry Adams at the National University of Ireland in Galway, Ireland.

The Prince of Wales and the Duchess of Cornwall arrive at the National University of Ireland in Galway, Ireland, where he is to meet Sinn Fein president Gerry Adams in a historic encounter.

The Prince is of Wales (centre) is greeted on his arrival at Shannon airport by Rose Hynes, Chairman Shannon Airport Authority (left) and Pat Breen TD, Chairman of the Joint Committee on Foreign Affairs at the start of his 4 day visit to Ireland.

The Prince is of Wales (left) is greeted on his arrival at Shannon airport by Cllr Joe Cooney, Cathaoirleach, Clare County Council (2nd left)) and British Ambassador to Ireland, Dominick Chilcott and Jane Chilcott at the start of his 4 day visit to Ireland.

Northern Ireland's Deputy First Minister, Martin McGuinness, arrives at the National University of Ireland on May 19, 2015 in Galway, Ireland. The Prince of Wales and Duchess of Cornwall arrived in Ireland today for their four day visit to the Republic and Northern Ireland, the visit has been described by the British Embassy as another important step in promoting peace and reconciliation. (Photo by Darren Staples - WPA Pool/Getty Images)

Sinn Fein president Gerry Adams speaks to the media as he arrives at the National University of Ireland on May 19, 2015 in Galway, Ireland. The Prince of Wales and Duchess of Cornwall arrived in Ireland today for their four day visit to the Republic and Northern Ireland, the visit has been described by the British Embassy as another important step in promoting peace and reconciliation. (Photo by Darren Staples - WPA Pool/Getty Images)

Prince Charles, Prince Of Wales arrives at the National University of Ireland on May 19, 2015 in Galway, Ireland. The Prince of Wales and Duchess of Cornwall arrived in Ireland today for their four day visit to the Republic and Northern Ireland, the visit has been described by the British Embassy as another important step in promoting peace and reconciliation. (Photo by Darren Staples - WPA Pool/Getty Images)

Sinn Fein president Gerry Adams (right) at the National University of Ireland, Galway where he will meet The Prince of Wales and The Duchess of Cornwall at a welcome reception.

Timothy Knatchbull is taken into an ambulance after the IRA bomb attack in 1979 which killed his uncle Lord Mountbatten

Police frogmen at the scene of the murders of Lord Mountbatten and others in 1979

Paul was killed aged 15 in the IRA blast which claimed the life of Earl Mountbatten in 1979

In this file photo taken in August 1947 and released by Indian Ministry of Defense, Indian last Governor General Lord Mountbatten salutes the Indian national flag hosted at India Gate as Lady Edwina, second right, and India's first prime minister Jawaharlal Nehru,right, looks on, during independence day celebrations, in New Delhi, India, August 1947. Sixty years ago this month, India and Pakistan won their Independence, now Pakistan, no stranger to domestic turmoil, is embroiled in an increasingly violent struggle between Islamic extremists and moderates, where as India is racing to become an economic powerhouse, lightning growth has transformed the country and fueled a consumer boom. (AP Photo/Indian Ministry of Defense, HO, File)

1977 at a polo match at Windsor; Prince Charles, and Lord Mountbatten with Prince Philip

File photo dated 20/11/1947 Princess Elizabeth, now Queen, and Lieutenant Philip Mountbatten, now the Duke of Edinburgh with their eight bridesmaids in the Throne Room at Buckingham Palace, on their wedding day. PRESS ASSOCIATION Photo.

Lady Edwina Mountbatten (1901 - 1960) with Indian prime minister Jawaharlal Nehru (1889 - 1964) at a reception given for him by the Indian High Commissioner in London at Kensington Palace Gardens, 11th February 1955. (Photo by Keystone/Hulton Archive/Getty Images)

Library filer dated 16/07/1959 of Lord Louis Mountbatten, who was a key figure in the partition of India and Pakistan. PRESS ASSOCIATION Photo. Picture date: Sunday October 29, 2006. Uncle Dickie, as he was affectionately known by the royals, was the last Viceroy of the British Indian Empire and oversaw an accelerated plan in 1947 to achieve partition and independence, not within the 12 months as expected but in just over 70 days. The Prince of Wales and the Duchess of Cornwall arrived in Pakistan yesterday for their first ever trip to the Islamic republic.

Library filer from 1965 of Earl Mountbatten of Burma. The Irish Government rejected an offer from Lord Mountbatten for the free use of his castle in County Sligo, according to newly-released files. The former Earl of Burma, who was killed by an IRA bomb in 1979, had inherited Classiebawn Castle after the death of his wife. He wrote to the Taoiseach Liam Cosgrave in March 1975 to offer the castle to the state as a gesture to cement his family's close connection with Ireland.

PACEMAKER PRESS INTL BELFAST 26/8/09. A Collect of Paul Maxwell,It was the last ever picture taken of him who was murdered with Lord Louis Mountbatten by an IRA bomb while sailing near his holiday home in County Sligo, Ireland, on 27th August, 1979

Lord Mountbatten:Murdered by the IRA

11th May 1937: Lord Louis Mountbatten chats to a spectator at a polo match at Hurlingham. (Photo by Fox Photos/Getty Images)

Britain Queen Elizabeth II...Britain's Queen Elizabeth II, right, and her husband Prince Philip, the Duke of Edinburgh, centre with back to camera, are greeted on their arrival at London Airort, on Feb. 7, 1952. The royal couple cut short their official trip to Kenya and returned home following the death of King George VI. Prince Philip is talking to Earl Mountbatten of Burma, left. (AP Photo)...A

He may have come to Mullaghmore to bury a part of his own haunted past - but Prince Charles departed after one of his toughest royal engagements with a sense that he'd somehow turned a personal tragedy wrought from Anglo-Irish divisions into a triumph that cemented an even closer future between Britain and Ireland.

His powerful and emotion-charged words of reconciliation, hope and forgiveness were hailed as a sure-footed masterclass in breaking down ancient barriers of hate and distrust, building up on the foundations of what his mother had done on her historic visit to the Republic four years ago.

Yet along every step of the way in Mullaghmore, every eye, every telephoto lens and every TV camera was trained on one of the world's most famous faces to see if the heir to the British throne would succumb to a less familiar but perfectly understandable display of emotion on his long-delayed visit to the village where the IRA brought their war to the royal family.

Knowing that a tear for his revered great-uncle Lord Mountbatten would be seen on front pages right around the globe, the Prince of Wales steeled himself for what was no run-of-the mill royal trip, but rather an intimate pilgrimage reluctantly played out in public.

This was why part of his visit to towering Classiebawn Castle - the summer retreat of the mentor he called the grandfather he never had - was played out away from the glare of the media.

But even as the prince walked to the village harbour to keep a 36-year-old promise to himself to see the actual Mountbatten murder scene, the regal stiff upper lip never wavered.

Of course, the prince would have known exactly what Mullaghmore looked like. In his mind he must have endlessly re-run those grainy TV pictures of the wreckage of the Mountbatten fishing boat floating listlessly on a millpond of an ocean after the bombing.

But seeing Mullaghmore for the first time for real was undoubtedly an altogether more harrowing experience. Yet the prince confided in local people that it had also been an uplifting one, a closure of sorts on almost three decades of hurt. Amid all the talk of reconciliation before, during and after his meeting with Sinn Fein's Gerry Adams 24 hours earlier, Charles was able to at last reconcile himself to the 1979 IRA murder which he'd spoken about so movingly yesterday morning in Sligo.

His speech and his theme of pushing forward with the peace process and Anglo-Irish relationships, together with his quotes from WB Yeats (below) about peace coming dropping slow, went down well with people in Mullaghmore, some of whom had been wary of reopening old wounds from a time they wanted to forget.

In Eithna's by the Sea, an award-winning seafood restaurant, locals had been gathering from early morning to sample the coffee, scones and the buzz.

"There's been a huge sense of excitement here for days," said owner Eithna O'Sullivan "The security has been so tight that we are not expecting our normal influx of day-trip diners, but this is a once-in-a-lifetime experience."

For the villagers as well as for the prince there was a mixture of emotions. Eithna said: "We are happy to see the royals but we have to remember that this is also a memoriam for the lives of Lord Mountbatten and the other people who died in the tragedy.

"And it's also an important day for Mullaghmore which has moved on, but has never really got over the tragedy."

Mullaghamore man Jim Turbett said: "It's fabulous for the village in that it'll now be seen in the proper light. For as long as I can remember, any visitors who come here always want to know about the bombing. Hopefully people will talk about our Wild Atlantic Way from now on."

Mr Turbett said he'd never seen so many police and soldiers - or crush barriers - in his life as he drove through the village. "The searches were very thorough," he said. "They even made me take my battery out of my mobile phone."

Garda officers swept through the fields and beaches in Mullaghmore in last-minute searches even after locking down the village. "We don't expect the dissidents to do anything but we can't take the risk," said one officer. The tight security wasn't restricted to the land.

Out at sea, an Irish Navy vessel patrolled the waters where, in 1979, Lord Mountbatten's fishing boat, the Shadow V, was blown apart by an IRA bomb triggered by a Provo on the shoreline.

Most of the journalists covering the visit had to travel to the village on board official buses and were closely marshalled by Press teams from London and Dublin.

Briefings from Clarence House gave detailed itineraries for the Mullaghmore visit but didn't mention the name of Lord Mountbatten or how he died.

After his behind-closed-doors visit to Classiebawn, the prince travelled in a massive convoy to the peace garden in the heart of Mullaghmore.

There he met dignitaries and Garda officers who had been on duty on the day of the bombing. Charles was accompanied by one of the survivors from the boat, Lord Mountbatten's grandson Timothy Knatchbull. His twin brother Nicholas died along with Dowager Lady Brabourne and Enniskillen teenager Paul Maxwell, whose parents were in Mullaghmore yesterday.

In a private meeting at the Pier Head Hotel, which was the nerve centre of the rescue operation in 1979, Prince Charles met them and thanked people who had helped with the dead and dying and whose compassion he had earlier said had "done much to help the healing process".

One of the men Charles and the Duchess of Cornwall met was Dr Tony Heenan, a consultant who had led a small team of doctors and nurses at Sligo General Hospital in 1979.

Even though Charles is in some quarters still a hate figure because of his role as Colonel-in-Chief of the Parachute Regiment - the soldiers responsible for Bloody Sunday and the Ballymurphy shootings - there were no demonstrations in Mullaghmore.

Indeed, the royal couple could hardly have looked any more relaxed as they shook the hands of dozens of villagers who welcomed them warmly during a walkabout on a day that would have been thought impossible back in 1979 after one of the bloodiest 24 hours of the Troubles.

On social media several posts urged people not to forget the 18 soldiers who died in a double bomb blast at Narrow Water Castle near Warrenpoint, only hours after the Shadow V bombing.

There were also calls for Mullaghmore's only other victim of the Troubles to be remembered. Portadown woman Margaret Perry was beaten to death and buried in Mullaghmore in 1991 and her body wasn't discovered for over a year.

The IRA later murdered three men it claimed were MI5 agents and who it said had murdered Margaret Perry.

Recovery of the body of Lord Mountbatten, killed in an explosion on his boat by the IRA. (1979). FILE PIC.

Lord Louis Mountbatten

MSI Earl Mountbatten Funeral

Noel Coward(left) with Earl Mountbatten of Burma.

11th May 1937: Lord Louis Mountbatten chats to a spectator at a polo match at Hurlingham. (Photo by Fox Photos/Getty Images)

File photo dated 20/11/1947 of Princess Elizabeth, now Queen, and Lieutenant Philip Mountbatten, now the Duke of Edinburgh, at Buckingham Palace after their wedding ceremony. PRESS ASSOCIATION Photo. The Queen and Duke of Edinburgh will mark their diamond wedding anniversary with a special service of thanksgiving next week. Retracing their footsteps down the aisle, the royal couple will return to Westminster Abbey, where they married 60 years ago. See PA Story ROYAL Anniversary. Photo credit should read: PA Wire

File photo dated 20/11/1947 Princess Elizabeth, now Queen, and Lieutenant Philip Mountbatten, now the Duke of Edinburgh with their eight bridesmaids in the Throne Room at Buckingham Palace, on their wedding day. PRESS ASSOCIATION Photo. The Queen and Duke of Edinburgh will mark their diamond wedding anniversary with a special service of thanksgiving next week. Retracing their footsteps down the aisle, the royal couple will return to Westminster Abbey, where they married 60 years ago. See PA Story ROYAL Anniversary. Photo credit should read: PA Wire

Lady Edwina Mountbatten (1901 - 1960) with Indian prime minister Jawaharlal Nehru (1889 - 1964) at a reception given for him by the Indian High Commissioner in London at Kensington Palace Gardens, 11th February 1955. (Photo by Keystone/Hulton Archive/Getty Images)

In this file photo taken in August 1947 and released by Indian Ministry of Defense, Indian last Governor General Lord Mountbatten salutes the Indian national flag hosted at India Gate as Lady Edwina, second right, and India's first prime minister Jawaharlal Nehru,right, looks on, during independence day celebrations, in New Delhi, India, August 1947. Sixty years ago this month, India and Pakistan won their Independence, now Pakistan, no stranger to domestic turmoil, is embroiled in an increasingly violent struggle between Islamic extremists and moderates, where as India is racing to become an economic powerhouse, lightning growth has transformed the country and fueled a consumer boom. (AP Photo/Indian Ministry of Defense, HO, File)

Britain Queen Elizabeth II...Britain's Queen Elizabeth II, right, and her husband Prince Philip, the Duke of Edinburgh, centre with back to camera, are greeted on their arrival at London Airort, on Feb. 7, 1952. The royal couple cut short their official trip to Kenya and returned home following the death of King George VI. Prince Philip is talking to Earl Mountbatten of Burma, left. (AP Photo)...A

PACEMAKER PRESS INTL BELFAST 26/8/09. A Collect of Paul Maxwell with his sister Lisa , who was murdered with Lord Louis Mountbatten by an IRA bomb while sailing near his holiday home in County Sligo, Ireland, on 27th August, 1979

Royal visit to Ireland...Classiebawn Castle in Mullaghmore Co Sligo which used to be owned by Lord Mountbatten as the town is to be visited by the Prince Wales and the Duchess of Cornwall later this month. PRESS ASSOCIATION Photo. Picture date: Friday May 15, 2015. See PA story ROYAL Ireland. Photo credit should read: Niall Carson/PA Wire...A

PACEMAKER PRESS INTL BELFAST 26/8/09. Mary Hornsey 'The Mother of Paul Maxwell, who was murdered with Lord Louis Mountbatten by an IRA bomb while sailing near his holiday home in County Sligo, Ireland, on 27th August, 1979

PACEMAKER PRESS INTL BELFAST 26/8/09. A Collect of Paul Maxwell,It was the last ever picture taken of him who was murdered with Lord Louis Mountbatten by an IRA bomb while sailing near his holiday home in County Sligo, Ireland, on 27th August, 1979

View of a page from the book of register, showing the wedding of Princess Elizabeth, now Queen, and Lieutenant Philip Mountbatten, now the Duke of Edinburgh, at Westminster Abbey, London. PRESS ASSOCIATION Photo. Picture date: Tuesday November 13, 2007. Issue date: Friday November 16, 2007. The Queen and Duke of Edinburgh will mark their diamond wedding anniversary with a special service of thanksgiving next week. Retracing their footsteps down the aisle, the royal couple will return to Westminster Abbey, where they married 60 years ago. See PA Story ROYAL Anniversary. Photo credit should read: Steve Parsons/PA Wire

File photo dated 31/10/1947 of Princess Elizabeth, now Queen, and Lieutenant Philip Mountbatten, RN, now the Duke of Edinburgh, receiving a wedding present of an electric sewing machine at Clydebank town hall where they were launching the liner 'Caronia.' PRESS ASSOCIATION Photo. The Queen and Duke of Edinburgh will mark their diamond wedding anniversary with a special service of thanksgiving next week. Retracing their footsteps down the aisle, the royal couple will return to Westminster Abbey, where they married 60 years ago. See PA Story ROYAL Anniversary. Photo credit should read: PA Wire

Lord Mountbatten in navy uniform 1965

Library filer from 1965 of Earl Mountbatten of Burma. The Irish Government rejected an offer from Lord Mountbatten for the free use of his castle in County Sligo, according to newly-released files. The former Earl of Burma, who was killed by an IRA bomb in 1979, had inherited Classiebawn Castle after the death of his wife. He wrote to the Taoiseach Liam Cosgrave in March 1975 to offer the castle to the state as a gesture to cement his family's close connection with Ireland.

File photo dated 20/11/1947 of Princess Elizabeth, now Queen, and Lieutenant Philip Mountbatten, now the Duke of Edinburgh, at Buckingham Palace after their wedding ceremony. PRESS ASSOCIATION Photo. The Queen and Duke of Edinburgh will mark their diamond wedding anniversary with a special service of thanksgiving next week. Retracing their footsteps down the aisle, the royal couple will return to Westminster Abbey, where they married 60 years ago.

But the overwhelming feeling in Mullaghmore last night after the royal visitors left was that the village which had seen one of the most infamous episodes in Ireland's history had yesterday witnessed another significant milestone on the long road to peace.